Lake Bled feels like it belongs in the opening chapter of a fairytale. Surrounded by picturesque hills, a clifftop castle, and the peaks of the Julian Alps, it's easy to see why it's a must-do on anyone’s Slovenia itinerary…

During my stay in Bled, hiking to these viewpoints was one of the highlights of my trip. Here's what to expect from each trail and which viewpoint I think offers the best view of Lake Bled.

Lake Bohinj, often seen as a quieter alternative to Lake Bled, is a glacial lake nestled within Triglav National Park. Surrounded by dense forest and steep alpine peaks, the blue-green waters often shimmer with the reflection of the surrounding mountains.

Winding through the limestone cliffs of Triglav National Park, the emerald waters of Vintgar Gorge (Soteska Vintgar), and the sounds of the rushing Radovna River take you to what feels like a completely different world just a short distance from Lake Bled.

Hiking the Salkantay Trek has been one of my highlights from my travels so far. Peru is all about hiking and I showed up totally unprepared. I signed up to do the trek the night before and before I knew it I was leaving a few hours later...

Eager to visit and somewhat selfishly have it all to myself, I spent a few good hours researching online and talking to locals. Here's a step by step guide on how to visit away from the tour groups....